After seeing the more inclusive, homestyle, Viper Room show, this one gave a truer glimse into what Ima Robot can be in terms of scope and significance. For starters, the pairing with Hot Hot Heat is genius--the music is somewhat similar (though I would contend that Ima Robot definitely pushes things further, content-wise) and the fans last night completely embraced Ima Robot. Everyone I spoke to asked if the album was out and where they could buy it. And as I tried to move through the crowd passing out stickers, people wanted me to stop and discuss the band at great length with them. I think people seemed a little surprised that an opening band could be this good.

Here's the setlist:
1) Song #1 - felt like the ending was reworked on this one, like a bar was taken out to make it more abrupt. I may be imagining things.

2) Dirty Life - Song ends with Joey playing while standing for an extended period of time. We admire the homage to punk drummers of yore, only to find out later that his drumstool had fallen down and he had no choice.

3) A Is For Action - This one has benefited the most from repeat performances - it was tight tight tight and the end had JMJ, Tim, and Joey in the corner whirling into a frenzy.

4) STD Dance - Yes, this was played relatively early in the set...but as far as crowd-pleasers, this one couldn't be beat. The buildup to the crescendo at the end where Alex belts out "Just give me looove" was amazing. I don't think the crowd was as worked up during any other song that night by any of the bands who played.

5) Dynomite - Some people seemed to recognize it, another new development.

6) Black Jettas - Nice to see JMJ revisiting some of the old Beck tour robot moves...and Tim's doing them too, which makes this performance loopy good fun.

7) Scream - Yikes, Alex falls off speaker.

8) 12=3 - We realize this is going to be a really short set.

9) Here Come The Bombs - Now Tim falls to the ground, it looks painful but we are reassured the pain is only beginning as Alex goes over to a supine Tim and stands on his chest, continuing to sing the song. Insanity. Tim gets back to his feet eventually and they finish the set. Crowd flips out. Band makes a roomful of new fans. We'll see if they repeat this performance tonight!

I look forward to your HOB Review #2. Just loved your #2 tale above, with Joey forced to stand. Maybe he'll begin adding it as part of the show.

And yeah, compared to Viper, a pretty short set.

And when will we hear "The Beat?"

Tahaaaa, I was there! I didn't have money for the CD or the shirt. I was bummed out. I'm gonna get my arse to the record store soon enough though. I can't be arsed to right now. :P

$6.99 at CD Universe!

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Awesome show; all the really cool Hot Hot Heat kids seemed to really dig Ima Robot.